Back Door

The Profile

Back Door are an English jazz-rock trio formed in 1971, known for Colin Hodgkinson’s lead bass, Ron Aspery’s saxophones/keyboards and Tony Hicks’s drums. They debuted with the self-titled Back Door (recorded in London, June 1972), followed by 8th Street Nites (1973) and Another Fine Mess (1975). The group reunited in 2003 for Askin' The Way.

English jazz-rock/jazz fusion trio formed in 1971; members: Colin Hodgkinson (bass, vocals), Ron Aspery (saxophones, keyboards), Tony Hicks (drums); debut album recorded June 3–4, 1972 in London; notable albums include 8th Street Nites (1973) and Another Fine Mess (1975); brief reunion in 2003 for Askin' The Way.

One review revisits Back Door’s self-titled 1972 debut: an instrumental jazz/blues set that’s captivating in places and challenging in others. The critic praises musicianship and interplay but finds the whole less exciting, aside from highlights like Human Bed, Waltz for a Wollum and Lieutenant Loose. All 12 tracks are sharp, under four minutes, and largely improvised with heavy syncopation. Recorded in London on June 3–4, 1972; booklet notes and press quotes are included.